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Should I be worried if my child prefers solo play?

Parenting Perspective

Not necessarily. Solo play is a natural and often healthy part of early childhood. Many toddlers and preschoolers choose to play alone, especially when they are building new skills, exploring imaginary worlds, or regulating their emotions. For some children, especially those with an introverted temperament, solo play offers a sense of control, calm, and creativity. It should not be mistaken for loneliness or social delay unless it is accompanied by signs of distress, withdrawal, or difficulty engaging when invited.
What matters more is how your child balances solo play with moments of connection. If they respond when spoken to, occasionally show interest in playing with others, or can follow basic social routines when encouraged, they are likely developing just fine. Solo play supports independence and problem-solving. Rather than discourage it, offer regular but gentle invitations to join in shared activities. These can include storytelling, group games, or helping with simple tasks. The key is to respect their rhythm while gently expanding their comfort zone through trust and routine

Spiritual Insight

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Kahf (18), Verse 10: ‘When those young people retreated into the cave, they said: “O our Sustainer, bestow upon us Your special mercy, and facilitate for us all of our affairs, in a righteous manner.”’ This verse highlights that retreating into solitude can be a meaningful and even spiritual act when rooted in purpose and awareness.
It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 4953, that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ ‘…began to like seclusions, so he used to go in seclusion in the cave of Hira where he used to worship Allah (Almighty) continuously for many nights…’ This practice of seclusion shows that solitude has a valued place in spiritual and emotional growth.
In childhood, moments of quiet play may reflect a natural inclination toward reflection, observation, or inner creativity. Islam honours both companionship and solitude. A child who enjoys solo play may be processing the world in their own way. Encouraging balanced play, where solitude is respected and companionship is gently fostered, helps cultivate a calm and thoughtful heart, in line with the Prophetic model of development.

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